Nick Hatanaka named to Junior National team

Former Loveland standout Nick Hatanaka was named to the USA Swimming Junior National Team on Tuesday, the result of his third-place finish at the Junior National meet this summer.

The two-time state 100-yard breaststroke champion took third at juniors in the 200-meter breaststroke, posting the nation's fourth-fastest 18-younger time over the summer when he clocked in at 2:15.82. The swimmers with the top six times in each events were named to the team and are eligible to compete internationally with the team this year.

Hatanaka said he found out when his mom sent him a text, which was followed by an email from Loveland Swim Club coach Jim Nickell.

"I think this is just a stepping stone. Really, I was only worried about my times, but it's an honor to be named to the team," Hatanaka said. "It's phenomenal, and it's thanks to the work of my coaches back home. It felt great to get into that top six."

Hatanaka is now competing for the University of Minnesota. He was one of two Colorado swimmers to make the team, Carter Griffin being the other. He said he's not sure if he'll get to travel or not, but feels the recognition is a reward in itself.

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